Last season marked tremendous improvement for the New York Jets, who completed their first winning season since 2010. Although New York schedule was not a very difficult obstacle, a six win turnaround was a surprise. Despite recording a 10-6 record, New York's season finale loss to the Buffalo Bills knocked them out of the playoffs. Quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick's historic first season with the Jets seemed like an afterthought, after throwing three fourth-quarter interceptions. Todd Bowles first season at the helm was encouraging, but the inability to close out games was daunting. It is up to general manger Mike Maccagnan to build off of last season's performance and improve the roster.
With running back Chris Ivory, nose tackle Damon Harrison, inside linebacker DeMario Davis, safety Antonio Allen, and a couple others set to hit the open market, Maccagnan was prepared to re-load the roster. He addressed Chris Ivory's departure by signing running backs Matt Forte, Bilal Powell (re-signed), and Khiry Robinson. According to former NFL offensive lineman Damien Woody, New York will mostly utilize a running back committee and conserve the aging Forte' talents. Despite being a consistent workforce in Chicago, running backs usually hit the decline stage around the early 30s. Forte's recent knee injuries bring questions, but adding two bonus backs adds more depth. Revamping the running back position was addressed, however, the Jets took a major hit on the offensive line. After left tackle D'brickishaw Ferguson retired at age thirty two, New York acquired Denver Broncos left tackle Ryan Clady and a seventh round draft pick, in exchange for a fifth round draft pick. Ferguson helped lead a Jets line that allowed the second fewest sacks in the NFL (22). Clady's health is both a concern and risk that Maccagnan gambled on, who is hoping to play his first healthy season since 2012.
Despite setting the single-season team record in passing touchdowns (31), the Jets have yet to be in contact with the veteran signal caller. Although there are serviceable options in this years draft, Fitzpatrick's familiarity and success with Chan Gailey's offense make him a more attractive option. Wide Receivers Eric Decker and Brandon Marshall would benefit from the doubt as they combined for 189 receptions, 2,529 yards, and 26 touchdowns (All Jets single-season record for wide receiving combo). New York hasn't had a franchise signal caller since Joe Namath and is capable of retaining Fitzpatrick. Drafting quarterback Paxton Lynch in the first round would be a smart move by the Jets, due to the fact that Lynch's diversified arm and ability to extend passing plays, make him a profitable pick.
Even though New York was noticeably improved on the offensive side, they ranked top ten in yards allowed per game (318.6 - 4th in NFL), points allowed per game (19.6 - T-8th), and rushing yards allowed (83.4 - 2nd). After being obliterated for 401 points in 2014, New York upgraded the secondary by reuniting with cornerback Darelle Revis, and signing safety Marquis Gilchrist. Although the secondary is still a work in progress, corners such as William Jackson III, Artie Burns, and Eli Apple may be available when New York is on the clock. A defense that gave up 235 pass yards per game, New York needs to add physical corners such as Jackson III and Apple if they want to be a complete defense. Rookie Marcus Williams flashed into the league with 6 interceptions, but cornerback Antonio Cromartie was susceptible to sloppy play, resulting a release for the negative graded Pro Football Focus veteran. New York is unlikely going to pursue cornerback Josh Norman (due to low cap room), but may surprise individuals by grabbing a corner instead of linebacker or quarterback in the draft.
The Jets 2nd ranked run defense is the reason why New York was competitive in most games. The departure of mammoth nose tackle Damon Harrison to the Giants is a stinger, but replacing him with Steve McLendon was a great move. McLendon helped Pittsburgh become a stingy run defense throughout the 2015 campaign, and will unload heavy duty stuffs with his new team. Even though Muhammad Wilkerson has yet to show up to the teams off-season workouts, the Jets bring lots of depth to their most feared position. Defensive Rookie of the Year Leonard Williams showed starter potential and will continue to put fear in opposing offenses. Wilkerson ranked top five in pass rushing productivity (10.7), according to Pro Football Focus, recorded a career high 12 sacks, and registered 64 combined tackles. Statistically, the only player that surpasses Wilkerson, in terms of productivity as a 3-4 defensive end, is JJ Watt. Although Wilkerson believes that New York is not committing enough time about contract talks, he does not deserve nearly 100 million dollars. New York has depth at defensive line and should turn to linebacker, if they want to improve their overall defense.
Losing inside linebacker DeMario Davis was a heart breaker, but not a back breaker. New York quickly filled the void with the acquisition of former Tampa Bay Buccaneer and Dallas Cowboy Bruce Carter. Carter will play his first year as a 3-4 linebacker, but is a good cover linebacker. New York has lacked an edge rusher that is ideal for a 3-4 defense. Players such as Justin Houston and Tamba Hali of the Chiefs, Terrell Suggs of the Ravens, and Julius Peppers of the Green Bay Packers create lots of havoc in the backfield. The pass defense would benefit from a consistent pass rush, outside of their triple threat (McLendon, (Previously Harrison), Richardson, and Wilkerson). Georgia' Leonard Floyd is another pick that analysts have the Jets drafting. Despite not being the most durable, Floyd has excellent speed and tenacity to put the quarterback under duress.
The key to Bowles' success in year two is chemistry and improvement. A six win turnaround was encouraging, but might be deemed as a one hit wonder. New York offset their off-season losses with free agent acquisitions and can upgrade their roster in the upcoming draft. However, it takes poise and progress to maintain a talented roster. The Jets also have gaping holes at offensive tackle and still need to either retain Ryan Fitzpatrick or draft a quarterback. Maccagnan and Bowles' confidence in their roster will be the difference between a successful or failed season.
